FRANKFORT, Ky. – The Elder Maltreatment Alliance Committee of the Northern Kentucky Area Development District and the Interfaith Hospitality Network have collaborated to better serve the state’s elder population and recently received a start-up grant to establish an emergency shelter.

The grant, which was awarded by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, is worth $2,600 and will enhance a system designed to provide greater protection and services for northern Kentucky’s senior population. Campbell, Kenton and Boone counties will be served.

“This grant funding is to help establish a program we view as a necessity for the elderly population of northern Kentucky,” said Pam Pangburn, district long-term care ombudsman at Senior Services for Northern Kentucky and a member of the EMA alliance. “Establishing an emergency shelter for adults who are at risk of abuse or neglect will help us remove clients from dangerous situations immediately. Overall, this funding will help us keep people safe.”

The shelter will provide a one-stop contact for area police officers and others to access temporary emergency shelter for 24-48 hours. During this time, any elderly adult in danger of being abused or neglected will receive services.

In addition, Northern Kentucky hospitals Saint Luke West and Saint Luke East also will assist with the program and have agreed to screen at-risk seniors at local emergency rooms to determine what level of care is necessary.

Food and shelter also will be provided via the emergency program, which also assists senior citizens with finding appropriate housing.

Money comes from the emergency shelter grant program, specifically the Senior Assistance for Removal and Housing.

Pangburn said two people already have been assisted by the program, which has been supported by area legislators, including Sen. Katie Stine, R-Southgate, Sen. Jack Westwood, R-Crescent Springs, and Sen. Dick Roeding, R-Lakeside Park. This is the first attempt by northern Kentucky health care and housing providers to establish such emergency shelter using this type of grant funding.

For more information about the project, contact Pangburn toll-free at (800) 255-7265 or (859) 491-0522.